Captain Frederick Marryat, R.N. (1792-1848) joined the navy in 1806 and, although he missed all the big fleet actions, he enjoyed a lively naval career seeming to take his lead from his first Commander, Lord Cochrane. By the close of the Napoleonic Wars, he had guarded Napoleon, participated in several spirited frigate actions, survived serious fevers, saved five lives in action and had been promoted Commander. Despite all this, he found lasting fame initially for his signal code, first published in 1817. The Code of Signals for the Merchant Service became an international success going through no less than nineteen editions (not including foreign ones) through to 1879 and which was still used by some merchants until the 1890s. When he retired from the Navy (or rather hot-headedly resigned on the nominal grounds of 'private affairs') in 1830, he became a man of letters and it was in this part of his career that he became a highly popular author. He spawned many famous works drawn closely from his own experiences: Newton Forster, Peter Simple, Jacob Faithful, Midshipman Easy, and Japhet were published to great acclaim. The last eight years of his life were devoted to children's stories including Masterman Ready, or, The Wreck of the Pacific (1841) and the still-famous The Children of the New Forest (1847). He also colluded with George Cruickshank who wittily illustrated his Midshipman Ben Blockhead series and which are often reproduced in modern references. He was appointed a CB in December 1826 for distinguished conduct in Burma.

captain frederick marryat's GOLD pocket watch, early 19th century
an 18K gold open face quarter repeating verge pocket watch with calendar, 2in. white enamel dial signed and numbered Courvoisier Frères, 48446, with Arabic numerals, outer minute track, inner calendar ring with corresponding hand, blued steel Breguet hands; matte gilt movement, full plate, verge escapement, three-arm brass balance, flat balance spring, pierced and chased continental cock with polished steel endplate, silvered regulation dial, repeating on gongs activated by depressing the pendant; contained within a three-body, "Empire" case with polished bezels, reeded band, gilt metal counter-signed cuvette hinged to the movement ring engraved "Captn. Fredk. Marryat, RN" -- 2¾in. (7cm.) high; together with a photocopied letter dated 1953 confirming the pedigree and line of descent, and a watch repairer's invoice dated 2010 stating the watch had been comprehensively overhauled at that time.

Condition Report
enamel in fine overall condition with apparent cracks etc. in evidence; strike repeat mechanism working well; watch in running order at time of writing.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.